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The benefits of using coconut oil

Coconut oil has recently catapulted into our lives, with many food bloggers and nutritionists telling us it’s a healthier alternative to conventional oil. Yet coconut oil has been a health staple for centuries, with communities across the world swearing by it for many health benefits. So, what are the actual health benefits of consuming coconut oil and do they make the price tag of this product worth it?

Here are six solid benefits of using coconut oil – I’ll let you be the judge!

1. Good Fat!
Let’s first talk about the good fats in coconut oil. Yes, good fat is a thing! Our body needs these fatty acids as not only a source of energy but for maintaining healthy cell function and transporting fat-soluble vitamins.

Coconut oil contains three of essential fatty acids and 91% of the fat in coconut oil is healthy saturated fat. Most other fats take a long time to digest, whereas coconut oil bypasses many of these steps to be turned quicker into fuel.

2. Immunity
Those fatty acids that I just mentioned are lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, which all have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. Lauric acid in particular is known to fight bacteria and create a hostile environment for viruses. Ideal!

3. Aids digestion
As mentioned above, fats are essential for transporting and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. Coconut oil helps digestion by assisting the absorption of these vitamins, calcium and magnesium. The saturated fats also help fight fungi, bacteria and parasites that cause indigestion.

4. Heals infection
Coconut oil has been proven to tackle infections from the inside and out! Some studies have shown that the fats in the oil (also known as MCFA’s) have cleared up UTI and kidney infections. In some parts of the world, they even apply coconut oil to an external cut or bruise. The oil forms a chemical layer, which can protect from further infection!

5. Beneficial for hair and skin
I personally swear by coconut oil for a healthy head of hair! It is known for assisting hair growth and giving your locks a shiny quality. It is also a brilliant natural remedy for dry skin.

6. Keeps your teeth strong and prevents decay
Coconut oil has been use for centuries as a way to cleanse the mouth of bacteria and help heal periodontal disease. It is also very high in calcium, which promotes the growth of strong bones and healthy teeth!